We are having a REAL summer this year - it has been years since we have had a proper summer...I know, I record the temperatures and weather patterns every day and have done for years - a bit strange maybe, but a good record. But even I have to admit that 35 degrees, which is what it was on the 8th July (in the shade!) is rather extreme.
Today it reached just over 30 degrees in the shade. I am making the most of it, because knowing our English weather I doubt it will last. I get out and do things in the garden early morning, and water in the evening. I have been reading lots of books - and have been rather overdosing on Tess Gerritsen, who whilst at times gruesome is a very good writer. So much better than some authors and publications that seem to be out there today. So far I can't remember seeing a mistake in any of the books I have read of hers, and yet others I have read there are numerous spelling and grammatical errors. Thanks to my Dad for recommending her to me.
I am currently reading a rather hilarious account of a country doctor, by Dr Michael Sparrow.
The parakeets still visit the tree at the end of our garden every early evening and stay a few minutes before heading off.
A lovely Goldfinch has been visiting the feeder quite a bit as well.
I haven't heard them croaking yet, but our resident frogs are still there and can often be seen in the pond with their heads just sticking above the water line.
This amazing self seeded lily is just outside my bedroom window and smells amazing.
The Dalmation beans are coming along nicely and we have been having some with dinner most evenings.
The clematis is looking lovely and climbs over my Cavy Shed.
A self seeded Snap Dragon.
I thought this fuchsia had died during our harsh winter, but it has come back beautifully and has just started flowering.
The roses are looking as spectacular as ever.
A poor crop of gooseberries this year, in part due to where the pot they are grown in is now positioned, and in part to the hot weather we have been having. I won't be able to make jam with these as there isn't enough, so perhaps a gooseberry pie or crumble.
Our sweet Percy snoozing on his Dad's shoe.
I am still going to physiotherapy sessions fortnightly and think it may be starting to work a bit. I still have a lot of pain, but perhaps not quite as much, either that, or I am tolerating it better. The hot weather, brilliant sunshine and blue skies, always helps me to feel more positive anyway.
The last of the damaged book boxes were sorted during the week, and some more books had to be thrown, some given to charity, a load of magazines have gone in the recycling box, and the others packed up in plastic 'very useful boxes' and are currently stacked in my lounge. Not ideal, but even in plastic boxes they are NOT going back in that shed!
Have a good week everyone, I hope it treats you well.
Enjoy the weather, and don't worry if you can't do much in it. Just take it easy and relax!
